XI New Tab Browser Extension

The XI New Tab browser extension, which presents itself as a legitimate tool for showcasing browser wallpapers, has been identified as an intrusive and deceptive application. Cybersecurity researchers came across this extension during their investigation of dubious websites.

Upon conducting a thorough analysis of the XI New Tab, the experts uncovered its underlying functionality. They found that the extension engages in unauthorized alterations to the browser's settings. These modifications are aimed at forcefully redirecting users to the xitabs.com website, which is a fake search engine. This kind of behavior clearly categorizes the XI New Tab as a browser hijacker.

In essence, what may seem like a useful extension designed to enhance your browser's appearance is, in fact, a rogue entity that manipulates your browser settings to lead you to a fake search engine, potentially exposing you to various security risks and privacy issues?

The Presence of Browser Hijackers Like the XI New Tab could Lead to Serious Privacy Concerns

Browser hijackers are dubious programs that manipulate certain settings in Web browsers, typically including the default search engine, homepage, and new tab page. These changes are made to promote specific websites chosen by the hijackers.

The XI New Tab extension operates in a similar manner by modifying browser settings. Consequently, when this extension is installed, any attempt to conduct Web searches using the browser's URL bar or when opening new tabs leads to automatic redirects to the xitabs.com website.

Fake search engines typically lack the capability to provide genuine search results. Instead, they often redirect users to legitimate internet search platforms. For example, xitabs.com has been observed redirecting to the Bing search engine. However, the redirect destination might vary based on factors such as the user's geographical location.

A notable trait of browser-hijacking software is its utilization of techniques to ensure persistence within the system. This means that these programs employ tactics to make their removal difficult and prevent users from restoring their browsers to their original states.

Furthermore, browser hijackers, such as the XI New Tab, often possess the ability to track user data. The information they collect may encompass a range of details, such as visited URLs, viewed pages, search queries, internet cookies, login credentials, personally identifiable information and even financial data. This harvested data could be exploited in various ways, such as being sold to third parties for profit or being misused for illicit purposes. As a result, the presence of browser hijackers like the XI New Tab poses significant risks to users' privacy and security.

Browser Hijackers and PUPs (Potentially Unwanted Programs) Try to Hide Their Installation via Dubious Distribution Methods

Browser hijackers and PUPs often employ various deceptive distribution methods to hide their installation and infiltrate users' systems without their consent. These methods are designed to exploit users' lack of awareness and circumvent security measures. Here's how these unsafe entities attempt to hide their installation:

Bundling with Freeware/Shareware: One of the most common methods involves bundling the hijacker or PUP with legitimate and popular free or shareware software. Users who hastily install these programs may overlook the additional components hidden in the installation process.

Fake Software Updates: Users might encounter pop-ups or notifications claiming that their software (such as browsers, plugins, or system utilities) needs an update. Clicking on these prompts can lead to the installation of unwanted software.

Fraudulent Advertisements: Malvertising involves placing unsafe advertisements on legitimate websites. Clicking on these advertisements can trigger the download and installation of browser hijackers or PUPs without the user's knowledge.

Misleading Installers: Some installers disguise themselves as legitimate applications, tricking users into believing they are installing something useful. However, they install unsafe software instead.

Infected Email Attachments: Cybercriminals often use spam emails with infected attachments that, when opened, initiate the installation of unsafe software.

Browser Extensions/Add-ons: Users might be prompted to install seemingly harmless browser extensions or add-ons that promise useful features but actually introduce harmful behavior.

Social Engineering: Fraudsters might employ persuasive tactics to convince users to install seemingly harmless software, only to discover later that it is fraudulent.

In summary, browser hijackers and PUPs use a range of tactics to deceive users into installing them. Users should use a lot of caution when downloading and installing software from the internet, only use reputable sources, keep their software up to date, and use security tools to help prevent these unwanted installations.